“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds.”  [Titus 2:11-14]

While attending John Brown University, my sophomore year was a tough one. Like many students, I did not learn to study in high school. One particular class was Christian Approach to Philosophy.

After two weeks, we had our first weekly exam. When I received my paper back, scrolled at the bottom was, “FFF – Congratulations, Mr. Miller, you have managed to receive the lowest grade I have ever given a student. Come to my office for a visit.”

You can imagine how I felt. I had to pass this course; it was part of my major. When I sat down in front of Dr. Bowling, he said, “You have no idea what this class is about do you?” Of course not, I thought and I said, “I assume that’s why I got an FFF on my paper.”

Then Dr. Bowling said this, “If you will come to class every time, do not miss any test I give,” and (with a seemingly brief smile on his face), “I can assure you that you will not fail.”

My final grade was a B minus. I did what he asked. Do you think I deserved a B minus? Not on your life. It was by his grace and his grace alone.